Sonderling’s confirmation does not itself change employers’ obligations. For small businesses, the practical impact will depend on the rules, guidance and enforcement decisions that follow. NSBA’s priority remains clear: predictable labor standards that protect workers while allowing small-business owners to plan, hire and grow.
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OCT. 7, 2026 | On Sept. 30, 2026, before departing for its midterm recess, the U.S. Senate voted 47–41 to confirm Keith Sonderling as secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), placing him at the helm of an agency whose decisions directly affect how small businesses hire, compensate, and manage their workforces.
Sonderling has served as acting secretary since April, following the departure of former Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. He previously served as deputy secretary of labor, a commissioner and vice chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and deputy and acting administrator of DOL’s Wage and Hour Division. His background includes oversight of federal wage laws, employment practices, and workplace discrimination protections.
For small-business owners, the department’s direction carries significant implications for labor costs and compliance obligations. DOL administers and enforces federal laws governing wages, workplace safety, and retirement and health benefits.
One key issue for NSBA remains independent contractor classification. Earlier this year, NSBA submitted comments to DOL supporting a proposed framework that emphasizes control over the work and a worker’s opportunity for profit or loss. NSBA also underscored the need for lasting clarity, warning that repeated changes across administrations force small businesses to revisit contracts, compliance procedures, and workforce arrangements.
NSBA looks forward to continuing our close work with the DOL and congratulates the newest Secretary Sonderling.